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Tamin Lipsey stole the show in Iowa State’s tight win over Baylor, delivering a mix of hustle plays and steady scoring that kept the Cyclones on top. His energy and timing swung the game and left the coach and fans buzzing after a 72-69 victory.
How Lipsey’s effort decided a close game
Lipsey finished the night with 14 points, nine rebounds, three assists and two steals. He was all over the court, diving for loose balls and making momentum-shifting plays.
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Coach T.J. Otzelberger praised the guard’s intensity and impact. He noted Lipsey’s ability to be in the right place on both ends. That effort turned several possessions into game-changing moments.
The final margin — a three-point win — underscored how every hustle play mattered. Iowa State found ways to convert those moments into the victory.
Where this puts Iowa State in the Big 12 race
The Cyclones improved to 21-2 overall and 8-2 in conference play. The team has now won five straight games.
That streak comes at a crucial time. Iowa State is jockeying for top seeding ahead of the Big 12 tournament. Each upcoming result will shape the path to March.
Upcoming gauntlet: four games that could define seeding
Iowa State faces a tough slate over the next stretch. The lineup includes several ranked opponents in quick succession.
- Next up: TCU on Tuesday.
- Then: Kansas, a perennial Big 12 power.
- Followed by BYU, another ranked test.
- Finally: Houston, rounding out a critical run of meetings.
Coach Otzelberger pointed out how grueling the second half of Big 12 play can be. Injuries and fatigue become factors, and teams must navigate adversity to stay atop the standings.
Leadership and the intangibles Lipsey supplies
More than numbers
Lipsey leads Iowa State in assists and steals. Those stats show his court vision and defensive instincts.
Locker room influence
Teammates and coaches credit him with consistent energy and a high care factor. His presence raises the team’s competitive level every night.
- Veteran poise: steady decision-making in close moments.
- Relentless effort: diving plays and defensive hustle.
- Playmaking: driven to create for others while scoring when needed.
The Cyclones travel to TCU on Tuesday as they try to maintain momentum and chase the top seed in the Big 12.
